Recognizing the change in user requirements since the original RX10 was designed almost 20 years ago the XR20-W rotary axis calibrator by Renishaw promises easier set-up and use in a smaller and more compact package. The combination of these features has resulted in many users finding that the XR20-W enables them to test a wider range of machines and to do so more quickly. Now, applications flexibility has been further extended by the addition of Renishaw's new ‘Off axis rotary software.' This allows the XR20-W to be used even when it cannot be positioned directly on the rotary axis under test. Users can now test more and different machine tools than was previously possible; giving a better return on investment and offering a more attractive service to their customers. This is already proven to be beneficial for service and maintenance provider Morley Machine Alignment Inc., USA, as explained by their President Tony Morley:

“The new Renishaw XR20-W rotary axis calibrator has transformed the way we calibrate rotary axes on machine tools. Before XR20-W, our technicians relied on a combination of two devices; the old Renishaw RX10 and our in-house designed “Morleyometer” for applications where the calibrator could not be mounted on the center of rotation. While these devices got the job done, they were heavy, cumbersome and slow. Set-up could be challenging, and the associated cables and fixturing meant that great care had to be taken to ensure that the test proceeded smoothly. The new wireless XR20-W has changed all that. Set-up is now quick and easy and the new RotaryXL software is a pleasure to use.”

He continues, “XR20-W can even be used in “off center” applications such as trunnions and head type 5-axis machines. Thanks to a new methodology developed by Renishaw and their optional off axis rotary software, mechanical set-ups can be done quickly with just a simple generic mounting fixture, allowing the fully automatic test routine to proceed without delay. XR20-W has been one of the tools that has enabled us to offer our customers (typically high end aerospace component manufactures) a high standard of service and helped our company grow from just 4 employees a few years ago to the 20 strong team we have today.”

The XR20-W is a totally wireless accessory for use with Renishaw's XL-80 and ML10 laser measurement systems.  Together, they enable the automatic measurement of rotary axis positioning performance, with traceable ± 1arc second accuracy.